Crockpot Barbecue Ribs

If you’re a fan of fall-off-the-bone, flavorful ribs, this Crockpot Barbecue Ribs recipe will be a game-changer. Using a slow cooker makes it easy to achieve tender, juicy ribs with minimal effort. Perfect for any occasion, these ribs are coated in a savory barbecue sauce with hints of brown sugar and garlic, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience you won’t forget!

This crockpot ribs recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. The slow cooker does most of the work, making it an easy option for weeknights or special gatherings. With only a few minutes of prep, you can enjoy restaurant-quality ribs at home!

Before you start, gather these essential kitchen tools:

• Crockpot or slow cooker
• Mixing bowls (small and medium)
• Whisk
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

• For Smokier Flavor: Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce.
• For a Spicy Kick: Mix in cayenne pepper with the sauce.
• Sweeter Ribs: Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
• Extra Tang: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice before serving for a tangy twist.

To store leftovers, let the ribs cool completely before wrapping them tightly in aluminum foil or placing them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Pair these tender crockpot ribs with classic sides and refreshing drinks:

• Classic Coleslaw: The crunchiness and creaminess balance the richness of the ribs.
• Cornbread: Warm cornbread is a delicious complement to the BBQ flavors.
• Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans enhance the smoky BBQ taste.
• Iced Tea or Lemonade: These refreshing drinks are perfect for pairing with BBQ ribs.

• 2 cups of barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic, freshly minced
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 4-5 pounds baby back ribs

1. Prepare the Sauce

• In a large zip-top bag, combine the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper (if using).

1. Mix the Ingredients

• Seal the bag and knead it to mix the ingredients thoroughly.

1. Add the Ribs

• Open the bag and add the ribs. Seal again and shake to coat the ribs in the barbecue sauce mixture.

1. Crockpot Setup

• Lightly spray the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Transfer the ribs to the crockpot and pour about ¾ of the remaining sauce over the ribs.

1. Cook the Ribs

• For super-tender ribs, cook on high for 4-5 hours or on low for 9 hours. If you want a slightly firmer texture, opt for 7 hours on low.

1. Serve

• Reserve extra sauce for dipping, and serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

1. Can I use other types of ribs besides baby back ribs?
Yes, you can use spare ribs or country-style ribs. Adjust the cooking time as they may require a bit more time to become tender.

2. How do I get a caramelized finish on the ribs?
For a caramelized effect, place the cooked ribs under the broiler for 3-5 minutes after slow cooking, brushing with additional BBQ sauce.

3. Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?
Absolutely! Use your favorite BBQ sauce, or make it extra special by mixing in some honey, Worcestershire, or a few drops of liquid smoke.

4. How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a covered skillet with a bit of water and heat over medium-low until warmed through.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just use a gluten-free BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce to keep the dish gluten-free.

6. What’s the best way to freeze ribs?
Wrap cooled ribs in aluminum foil, then place in a zip-top freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

These easy crockpot barbecue ribs will be a go-to recipe for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings! Enjoy the incredible flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.

Crockpot Barbecue Ribs

Crockpot Barbecue Ribs are an effortless, fall-off-the-bone delight that’s perfect for any barbecue lover. By using a slow cooker, these ribs become incredibly tender and juicy without the need for a grill or smoker. Seasoned with a flavorful dry rub and coated in a rich barbecue sauce, these ribs cook low and slow to achieve a melt-in-your-mouth texture that everyone will love. This recipe is ideal for a busy day, as the crockpot does most of the work, leaving you with finger-licking barbecue ribs that taste as if they were smoked for hours.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American BBQ

Servings 4

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Slow cooker (Crockpot)
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush
• Aluminum foil (optional, for broiling)

Ingredients

  

• For the Ribs:
• 2 racks of baby back ribs or pork spare ribs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup barbecue sauce plus more for basting
• For the Dry Rub:
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp chili powder optional for a bit of heat
• ½ tsp ground cumin

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Ribs
• Pat the ribs dry with a paper towel. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for a more tender result. Rub the ribs with olive oil to help the seasoning stick.
• Apply the Dry Rub
• In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Rub this mixture generously over both sides of the ribs, ensuring they’re fully coated with flavor.
• Place Ribs in the Crockpot
• Arrange the ribs in the crockpot, standing them up along the edges with the meat side facing outward. This helps with even cooking. Pour ½ cup of barbecue sauce over the ribs, coating them lightly.
• Slow Cook the Ribs
• Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until the ribs are tender and almost falling off the bone.
• Baste with Barbecue Sauce
• About 30 minutes before serving, open the lid and brush the ribs generously with additional barbecue sauce. Allow them to cook for the remaining time with the lid off for a stickier coating.
• Optional Broiling Step
• For extra caramelization, preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the cooked ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, brush with additional barbecue sauce, and broil on high for 3–5 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and slightly charred.
• Serve
• Serve the ribs hot with extra barbecue sauce on the side, along with your favorite barbecue sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or baked beans.

Video

Notes

• Use your favorite store-bought or homemade barbecue sauce for a customized flavor.
• For spicier ribs, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the dry rub or barbecue sauce.
• Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
• Try using apple cider or apple juice in the crockpot to add extra moisture and a subtle sweetness to the ribs.

Keyword Crockpot Barbecue Ribs